Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best MBA program?
Tennessee Tech ranks as one of the top online MBA programs in the country. U.S. News ranked the program in the top 140 for the past two years out of nearly 1,800 degree programs reviewed.
Is Tennessee Tech’s MBA AACSB accredited?
Yes. The MBA program at Tennessee Tech is accredited by AACSB International, which is the highest standard of accreditation for business schools worldwide and is held by fewer than 6% of business programs globally.
How much does an MBA cost?
Tennessee Tech’s MBA is designed to be one of the most affordable AACSB-accredited MBA programs in Tennessee. Total, including tuition and fees, the MBA is $29,880.00 for in-state students, $34,920.00 for out-of-state students, and $61,056.00 for international students. Graduate students are also eligible for scholarships and financial aid. Read more here. (link to Costs and Financial Aid tab of website)
Can you get an MBA online in Tennessee?
Yes. TN Tech’s MBA program is offered fully online and designed for flexibility, making it ideal for working professionals who need to balance education with career and personal commitments.
Is there an entrance exam required for the MBA program?
No GMAT or GRE is required for admission to Tennessee Tech’s MBA program. Applicants are evaluated based on their undergraduate GPA, academic background, and professional experience. However, you may still want to take the GMAT or GRE (the GMAT being the preferred admissions test). Applicants whose undergraduate GPAs are below 3.0 and/or who have little or no professional work experience should strongly consider preparing for and taking the GMAT/GRE. The results may weigh favorably on the admission decision. GMAT information is available here. (link to GMAT)
Do I need business experience to apply?
No. Applicants from all academic backgrounds are encouraged to apply. TN Tech’s MBA is a useful degree in many industries and roles. the MBA is designed for students with the widest range of undergraduate degrees, experience levels, and backgrounds. A primary purpose of the MBA is to deliver relevant business knowledge and provide students with the skills needed for success as leaders in their chosen fields. Successful students have degrees in the sciences, humanities, engineering, fine arts, business, nursing, and education – to name a few.
I have a graduate degree. Will that weigh favorably in the admission decision?
Yes. Our admissions process considers the successful completion of other graduate degrees (e.g., MS, MA, PharmD, JD, MD, etc.) in the admission decision.
How does the online MBA work?
Courses are delivered through an internet-based class management program called iLearn (D2L). You simply log onto our website (http://ilearn.tntech.edu) using your assigned username and password, and you are taken to a page with information and content about the courses you are taking. There will be a link for each course in which you are registered. While individual courses differ in terms of their overall design, content, and delivery (e.g., some classes may provide opportunities for live interaction as well as recorded lectures etc.), the course platform provides for threaded discussions, links to online quizzes and exams, calendars, video resources, and chat rooms. Despite being at a distance, you will feel connected to your professors and peers. Our online learning platform facilitates peer-to-peer collaboration, discussions with faculty, and access to all content, including video lectures, PowerPoint presentations, materials that you can download or print, documents that the professor may want you to read, and assignments.
Can I start the program in the Fall, Spring, or Summer semesters?
Yes, we accept new students in the Fall, Spring, and Summer semesters. However, to ensure full consideration for admission to the desired term, please review the application deadlines available on the Graduate Student Calendar. It is advised that you submit your completed application and all required documentation early to be fully considered for upcoming semesters.
What will my diploma look like?
Tennessee Tech diplomas and the degrees they represent are the same regardless of the program delivery method. In fact, the standards consistent with our longstanding AACSB accreditation require that the same content, program quality, and faculty qualification level are maintained across all (in-person, online, or hybrid) delivery methods. So, neither your diploma nor your transcript will indicate how courses or programs are delivered. Additional certificates (e.g., in Banking and Financial Services, Cybersecurity and Analytics, Healthcare Informatics, and Agribusiness) are awarded separately and noted on your transcript along with any other credential you may receive (e.g., the MBA or MAcc).
I work for the state of Tennessee. Will the state cover my tuition?
The state covers the cost of in-state tuition for State of Tennessee employees. However, the differential of the cost between campus-based and online courses is not currently covered by the state reimbursement plan.
Will my employer pay for my tuition and fees?
Many companies and government organizations have tuition and fee reimbursement plans for graduate degrees in business. These plans differ across organizations; some cover the entire cost while others specify an annual (or total program) limit. Others may not have a formal plan in place but may provide support on a case-by-case basis. So, please check with your HR department to determine your organization’s educational reimbursement policies and practices.